A/HRC/28/6. General Assembly. Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review * United Nations. Gambia

Transcription

1 United Nations General Assembly Distr.: General 24 December 2014 Original: English Human Rights Council Twenty-eighth session Agenda item 6 Universal Periodic Review Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review * Gambia * The annex to the present report is circulated as received. GE (E)

2 Contents Paragraphs Page Introduction I Summary of the proceedings of the review process A. Presentation by the State under review B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review II. Conclusions and/or recommendations Annex Composition of the delegation

3 Introduction 1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 of 18 June 2007, held its twentieth session from 27 October to 7 November The review of the Gambia was held at the 3rd meeting on 28 October The delegation of the Gambia was headed by Basiru V.P. Mahoney, Attorney General and Minister of Justice. At its 10th meeting held on 31 October 2014, the Working Group adopted the report on the Gambia. 2. On 15 January 2014, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of the Gambia: France, Kenya and Maldives. 3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to resolution 5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to resolution 16/21, the following documents were issued for the review of the Gambia: (a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/20/GMB/1); (b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b) (A/HRC/WG.6/20/GMB/2); (c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c) (A/HRC/WG.6/20/GMB/3). 4. A list of questions prepared in advance by the Czech Republic, Germany, Liechtenstein, Mexico, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to the Gambia through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the universal periodic review (UPR). I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process A. Presentation by the State under review 5. The delegation of the Gambia started by stating that the country had made great efforts to strengthen human rights in several areas, from education and health, to the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities and fundamental freedoms, while maintaining a balance with security to ensure a stable environment for socio-economic development. 6. The delegation reiterated the particular circumstances of the Gambia that must be borne in mind when considering human rights, notably its size, at barely 11,500 square kilometres, with a population of less than 1.8 million people. It added that the Gambia was a secular State with different religions living together side by side in peace and harmony, as did the several ethnic tribes throughout the country. 7. Regarding access to the justice, the delegation noted that the Government recognized that it was a fundamental right that was necessary for the maintenance of a stable environment for socio-economic development. To that end, several mechanisms have been introduced to improve access to justice, such as the National Agency for Legal Aid (NALA) and the Alternative Dispute Resolution Secretariat (ADRS). The delegation added that the judiciary had continued its decentralization programme with the establishment of Magistrates Courts in all regions, and that it was in the process of establishing Cadi Courts and Children s Courts all over the country as well as more High Courts in addition to the ones in Banjul, Basse and Brikama. 3

4 8. On the right to education, the delegation stated that the Gambia was one of the leading African countries that had met the Millennium Development Goals with respect to primary school enrolment free of charge as well as gender parity. The Government plans to expand free education to secondary schools by 2015 for both boys and girls. The delegation added that more schools with a proximity range of three kilometres had been built to provide access to education for every Gambian child. Moreover, according to the delegation, the University of The Gambia continues to register annual increases in the number of students and has launched a new undergraduate degree programme in journalism. 9. With regard to the right to health, the delegation noted that the Gambia offered health services to the public at a very affordable flat fee for consultation and prescription medicine. There are several health centres with qualified nurses in every region, and referral hospitals manned by qualified doctors. The delegation added that maternal and antenatal health care was offered free of charge in all public health facilities. The delegation stated that, with the advent of the Ebola virus epidemic, the Gambia had taken strong preventative steps, including sensitization of the public, increased surveillance at border points and the provision of protective clothing to all personnel concerned, as well as Ebola test kits. 10. In the domain of the rights of women, children and persons with disabilities, the delegation noted that the Gambia had taken great strides to reinforce their rights. In order to combat gender-based violence, two pieces of legislation were enacted in December The Domestic Violence Act addresses domestic violence and provides protection for the victims of domestic violence, particularly women and children, and the Sexual Offences Act criminalizes every form of sexual assault, exploitation and harassment. 11. The delegation mentioned that the Gambia had ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the provisions of this Convention had been domesticated in the Children s Act It also noted that law enforcement officers had been trained on children-related laws, that police stations countrywide had Child Welfare Units manned by officers trained on issues relating to children and that shelters for children had been established. 12. The delegation also noted that campaigns to create awareness of the danger of child sexual abuse and exploitation had been launched and sensitization of stakeholders had been undertaken in the tourism industry to ensure greater protection of children from sexual exploitation. 13. In terms of juvenile justice, the delegation said that two additional children s courts had been established; child offenders were provided with free legal representation; and children were always separated from adults, from the pretrial to trial stage. 14. On the rights of persons with disabilities, the delegation mentioned that the Gambia had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) as well as its Optional Protocol (OP-CRPD) and that a draft Disability Bill was under consultation. 15. Regarding the fight against trafficking in persons, the delegation mentioned the establishment of the National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons, which had started its operations in December 2011, and had engaged in a countrywide sensitization programme to enlighten the public on the dangers and legal consequences of human trafficking. 16. With regard to asylum, the delegation recalled that in 2013, the Government had signed and ratified the Convention on the Status of Stateless Persons and the Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. Moreover, the Gambia Commission for Refugees, which is responsible for the security and protection of refugees, issues visitor passes to refugees, which enable them to travel freely within the member States of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). 4

5 17. Concerning the judiciary, the delegation stated that the Judges (Remuneration Allowances and Other Benefits) Bill, which was currently under consultation, would enhance the security of tenure of judicial officers in the long run and contribute to justice delivery services. It added that a second commercial court and a pretrial court had been established. 18. On fundamental freedoms, the delegation stated that the Constitution, the Criminal Procedure Code and the Police Act, among others, provided safeguards for persons under investigation and in detention. It also noted that persons suspected of having committed offences may be detained for up to 72 hours and thereafter must be brought before a court. According to the delegation, the Government has taken many measures to decongest the prisons and to improve prison conditions as well as the social welfare of prisoners. It added that, in 2013, special hearing dates had been organized for Mile 2 Prison remand wing inmates; trials had been conducted expeditiously; and persons for whom no sufficient evidence supported their charges had been acquitted and discharged. 19. Regarding the conditions of detention, the delegation mentioned that the Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with the Prison Services Department, had made efforts to renovate the security wing and increase the size of cells and cells allocation. Practical steps to promote rehabilitation of prisoners through education and vocational training have also been taken. Furthermore, according to the delegation, a doctor visits the prisons on a daily basis to provide medical services to sick inmates, and trained nurses are also present to attend to inmates. 20. On freedom of speech, expression and assembly, the delegation stated that the Gambia was committed to creating a conducive environment for the media to operate freely and to ensure a free flow of information, as provided for in the Constitution. Consequently, the Information and Communications Act 2009 was passed into law to provide for the restructuring, development and regulation of the information and communications sectors. Underlining that the right to freedom of expression was not absolute, the delegation mentioned that the Criminal Code provided for the offences of criminal libel and sedition. It added that, since 1994, there has been a steady increase in the number of radio stations and newspapers. 21. With regard to the issue of the female genital mutilation (FGM), the delegation explained that a National Plan of Action to Accelerate the Abandonment of FGM had been formulated. Acknowledging that FGM was still being practiced in the country, the delegation stated that this harmful practice was being addressed by the Government and civil society organizations through community empowerment programmes. 22. On the establishment of a national human rights institution, the delegation said that the draft National Human Rights Commission Bill was currently being revised to ensure compliance with international standards before being presented to the legislature for consideration. It added that, while the Commission was in the process of being established, the Office of the Ombudsman had a wide mandate, such as investigating allegations of maladministration, mismanagement or discrimination in any government department, authority, or other public body. 23. Regarding the death penalty, the delegation recalled that it had been abolished in 1993 but reinstated in 1995 by a Decree which had been accepted as the law when the Constitution was adopted by referendum in The delegation stated that the application of the death penalty was limited to murder and treasonable offences, meaning only to most serious crimes. Furthermore, Gambian law prescribes that the procedural guarantees, including the right to a fair hearing by an independent tribunal, presumption of innocence, minimum guarantees for the defence, and the right to review by a higher tribunal prescribed 5

6 must be observed before the death penalty could be applied. Those rights are applicable in addition to the particular right to seek pardon. 24. The delegation stated that the issue of elections had caused some controversial decisions to be made by international organizations, usually on the basis of boycotts by political parties. It noted, however, that all Gambians eligible to vote had access to registration centres, and that campaign periods regulated by the Independent Electoral Commission gave each party equal airtime on national television. 25. Regarding the reduction of poverty, the delegation noted that the Government had formulated a number of policies and strategies, such as Vision 2020, the development strategy and investment programme for , called the Programme for Accelerated Growth and Employment (PAGE), which is the successor to the Poverty Reduction Strategy Programme II (PSRP II). A recent programme for food self-sufficiency, called Vision 2016 has been launched; it seeks to encourage farmers to move from small- to larger-scale farming and to produce the necessary volume for consumption by the population. The delegation explained that the main objective of PAGE was to accelerate growth and employment, and thereby reduce poverty and improve the well-being of the population. In terms of food security and agriculture, the delegation noted that the Government s priority was to transform the country into a major supplier of agricultural products to the local and international markets. 26. On treaty obligations, the delegation stated that the Gambia had made strides in fulfilling its treaty reporting obligations since the last reporting period. In 2012, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) had organized a workshop to train government officials on treaty reporting to the United Nations and, in 2013, a National Treaty Reporting Task Force was established. The delegation added that the Gambia had submitted a number of reports, including the initial report under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in The delegation mentioned that in a bid to implement the recommendations of the first cycle of the UPR, the Gambia had constituted a multisectorial National Task Force composed of various government ministries and agencies as well as members of civil society organizations in order to formulate a National Action Plan for the implementation of the recommendations. 28. On United Nations special procedures, the delegation noted that the Gambia had no objection to any visits by Special Rapporteurs of the Human Rights Council. It added that, in fact, some Special Rapporteurs were preparing to visit the country during the first week of November B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review 29. During the interactive dialogue, 62 delegations made statements. Recommendations made during the dialogue can be found in section II of the present report. 30. India encouraged cooperation with, inter alia, the United Nations to strengthen national laws, and hoped for an early enactment of the Judicial Officers Bill India expressed appreciation for the emphasis on women empowerment and the measures taken to address gender-based violence. 31. Indonesia noted with appreciation that the Gambia has met the Millennium Development Goals on free primary school enrolment, and the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act. It also welcomed the steps being taken to establish a national human rights institution based on the Paris Principles. 6

7 32. Ireland encouraged the Gambia to issue a standing invitation to all special procedures and to ensure that, once established, the national human rights institution will be in full compliance with the Paris Principles. It urged the Gambia to reinstate a moratorium on the death penalty. Ireland expressed concern regarding reports of arrests, arbitrary detention, intimidation and harassment of human rights defenders, and noted that the child mortality rate remained high. 33. Italy noted minor progress in the areas concerning women s rights, legislation on sexual orientation and respect for freedom of expression, since the first review. It also expressed concern about reports of threats against and arrests of journalists. It regretted the resumption of executions in Kuwait noted the progress achieved in school enrolment, the health sector, gender equality and children s rights. It commended the adoption of the National Health Policy ( ) and the Domestic Violence Act. It welcomed the ratification of CRPD and OP-CRPD. 35. Libya noted the progress in implementing recommendations and the ratification of treaties. It noted progress achieved in education, particularly the building of schools and early childhood development centres, which had led to a marked increase in enrolment at different levels of education. 36. Malaysia welcomed the enactment of the Women s Act, the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act, and the adoption of the National Gender and Women Empowerment Policy. It noted that significant progress had been made in education, health, poverty eradication and children s rights. 37. Maldives noted the challenges of the Gambia and the key priority areas. It welcomed the enactment of the Gender Violence Act and encouraged further legal reforms aimed at eliminating all forms of discrimination against women, girls and persons with disabilities. Equality of opportunity in the social and economic spheres should be guaranteed for all, regardless of gender or disabilities. 38. Mali welcomed the creation of the National Agency against Trafficking in Persons, the adoption of the National Action Plan against Gender-Based Violence, free maternal and antenatal health care, and the adoption of the Programme for Accelerated Growth and Employment. 39. Mauritania welcomed the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act, and the significant progress made in free primary school enrolment and in gender parity. It firmly believed that the authorities were determined to create an environment conducive to press freedom and freedom of information. It encouraged OHCHR to provide technical support to the Gambia. 40. Mexico welcomed the adoption of the Programme for Accelerated Growth and Employment. It noted the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act and hoped that priority would be given to their implementation. It regretted that the moratorium on the death penalty had been breached in recent years. 41. Montenegro enquired about the main obstacles impeding the submission of overdue periodic reports and encouraged the Gambia to improve its cooperation with OHCHR and its human rights mechanisms. It regretted that the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act did not prohibit FGM. 42. Morocco noted the steps taken to promote gender parity and the empowerment of women and to eradicate gender-based violence. It welcomed the establishment of child rights and protection units in the police force and the armed forces. It also welcomed the steps taken to reform judicial institutions. 7

8 43. The Netherlands remained concerned with the human rights situation and lack of progress and noted that persecution and intimidation of human rights defenders and journalists continued to be widespread. It urged that their safety and freedom to carry out their work be guaranteed. It was concerned that amended section 144a of the Criminal Code severely restricted the rights and freedoms of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons. 44. Nicaragua commended the action taken to provide the education system with the resources required to ensure that the right to education was enjoyed by all. It trusted that the Vision 2020 strategy would serve as a key tool for overcoming the lack of resources and eradicating poverty. 45. The Niger commended the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on free primary school enrolment, the adoption of the National Health Policy, the creation of the National Agency for Legal Aid to facilitate access to justice for vulnerable persons, and the adoption of the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act. 46. The Philippines noted that available human and material resources were insufficient to implement anti-trafficking programmes. With a view to eradicating poverty, it encouraged the Gambia to examine opportunities for accessing modern agricultural technology and to seek the support of all sectors of society in ensuring food security. 47. Portugal welcomed the steps taken towards the creation of a national human rights institution. It expressed deep concern about the number of executions that had taken place in 2012, and noted that a de facto moratorium on the death penalty had been reinstated in It requested further information on measures envisaged to address school drop-out rates, especially for girls. 48. Rwanda commended the Gambia for progress made in poverty reduction, ensuring equitable access to education, improving maternal health and reducing infant mortality. It also commended the action to reform the judiciary, improve access to justice, prevent FGM, and combat sexual and gender-based violence. 49. Senegal encouraged the Gambia to pursue its efforts to reform the justice system and enhance its independence. Greater attention should be paid to the right to life and security of persons. Persons in conflict with the law, especially those sentenced to death, should have access to all avenues of appeal. 50. Sierra Leone commended the Gambia for progress made in the social and economic spheres, the legislation on sexual and gender-based violence and the reinforcement of the National Plan of Action against the Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children. It urged the Gambia to intensify its efforts to establish a national human rights institution and a protective mechanism for refugees, and to promote freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. 51. Singapore took positive note of efforts to improve access to education and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on gender parity in primary and lower secondary schools, with upper secondary school figures on track. It noted efforts by the National AIDS Council and Secretariat to combat HIV/AIDS and the relatively low prevalence among adults. 52. Slovakia noted that the conditions in prisons remained unsatisfactory and requested more information on the situation. It shared the concerns of the Special Rapporteurs on freedom of expression and on human rights defenders. 53. Slovenia commended the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography (OP-CRC-SC). It requested information about the measures taken to prohibit violence 8

9 against children in all settings, and the steps taken to implement legislative and other measures to combat violence against women. It expressed concern about reported violations of the freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly. 54. South Africa commended the Gambia for the marked improvements registered in all spheres of national development, particularly in the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on universal primary education and gender parity. It welcomed the declaration regarding free education at upper basic school level and for leading the way on sustainable energy. 55. South Sudan welcomed improved enrolment and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on free primary education and gender parity. Noting the challenges faced, it urged the Gambia to continue efforts regarding FGM. It welcomed the ratification of CRPD and OP-CRPD and measures in favour of persons with disabilities. 56. Spain recognized efforts to improve human rights, especially the ratification of CRPD. It expressed concern over regressive action regarding the moratorium on the death penalty, criminalization of consensual same-sex relations, torture allegations and national legislation restricting freedom of expression. It welcomed national legislation to protect women s rights. 57. The Sudan commended the Gambia s positive engagement with the UPR process and was encouraged by the information provided since the first cycle. It welcomed the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), CRPD and OP-CRPD, as well as the adoption of the National Gender and Women Advancement Policy Sweden expressed concern about reports of violence against journalists, human rights defenders and others exercising their right to freedom of expression, and about the proposed amendment to the Criminal Code Act 2014, as it would result in discrimination based on a person s real or perceived sexual orientation. 59. Thailand commended the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on primary school enrolment, child nutrition and the fight against malaria. It expressed support for efforts to improve legislation on the rights of women and children and noted efforts to establish a national human rights institution in cooperation with OHCHR, and offered assistance in that respect. 60. Togo recognized efforts made under the National Education Policy to improve enrolment at all levels, gender parity, free primary education provision, infrastructure and capacity-building. It welcomed increased financing for social protection programmes, including provision for children, women, the elderly and persons with disabilities. 61. Tunisia noted progress made regarding violence against women and children, and education. It noted the creation of a national treaty body reporting group and encouraged the issuance of a standing invitation to special procedures. It acknowledged requests for technical assistance and called on OHCHR and the international community to respond. 62. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland recognized progress made regarding the rights of women and children rights, education, and the national human rights institution, which should comply with the Paris Principles. It encouraged action on FGM and expressed concern regarding freedom of expression and discrimination against LGBTI persons. 63. The United States of America expressed dismay at the human rights situation. It was concerned about interference with electoral processes and the treatment of critics, including restrictions on freedom of speech, reports of torture, arrest, detention and enforced 9

10 disappearances. It expressed concern about discrimination against LGBTI persons, human trafficking, forced child marriage, child prostitution and child labour. 64. Uruguay welcomed the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on free primary education and gender parity; the ratification of CRPD and OP-CRPD; and progress in national legislation regarding gender-based violence, urging the implementation of the latter. It called for further measures to improve detention conditions and prison overcrowding in line with international standards. 65. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela commended the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on free primary education and gender parity; the provision of free maternal and family planning services; and the increased primary and secondary health-care provision, noting the reduced mortality rate due to immunization programmes. It welcomed the ratification of CRPD and OP-CRPD. 66. Algeria noted the Government s commitment to improving human rights, as demonstrated by the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals on free primary education and gender parity, and the adoption of a national development strategy. It encouraged the Gambia to continue efforts regarding maternal health, infant mortality, children s rights, justice, human trafficking and FGM. 67. Angola welcomed efforts to ensure that human rights and fundamental freedoms were respected. It commended the increased enrolment in upper secondary education, particularly among girls, and the legal reforms to provide two additional Children s Courts. It welcomed the progress made in women s rights, including legislation to combat sexual violence. 68. Argentina recognized efforts to establish a national human rights institution and encouraged the Gambia to ensure that the institution was fully operational and compliant with the Paris Principles. It stated that greater cooperation with treaty bodies would help the Gambia make progress regarding human rights. 69. Australia welcomed national legislation to combat gender-based violence and looked forward to the rigorous enforcement of this legislation. It expressed concern over widespread discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity; restrictions on media freedom; and reports of torture and arbitrary detention. 70. Azerbaijan welcomed the adoption of national policies to promote health; the advancement of women; advocacy for persons with disabilities; and to prevent domestic violence. It commended the ratification of CRPD and OP-CRPD and the establishment of national bodies to improve social protection and combat human trafficking. 71. Bangladesh commended the Gambia for the legislative measures taken to combat violence against women and children. It noted capacity-building efforts among educators and nurses, and the establishment of educational institutions. It commended the Gambia for the clarifications concerning its justice system, particularly in relation to serious crimes. 72. Botswana commended the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals on primary school enrolment and gender parity in education. It considered that the Domestic Violence Act and the National Health Policy demonstrated commitment to human rights. It was concerned about child marriage and the practice of FGM. 73. Brazil appreciated progress in school enrolment, including the Education for All initiative, and legislation on domestic violence and sexual offences. However, it was concerned about legislation punishing aggravated homosexuality with life imprisonment, as well as the number of executions carried out following a 27-year moratorium on capital punishment. 10

11 74. Burkina Faso noted the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals on primary school enrolment and progress in combating gender-based violence, and welcomed the National Gender and Women Advancement Policy. It called for continued action to eliminate FGM and the international community to offer adequate support to improve the human rights situation. 75. Canada asked how its recommendation to allow independent organizations access to detention centres and diplomatic access to arrested foreigners had been implemented. It urged the President not to make discriminatory remarks about LGBTI persons; welcomed action on gender-based violence; and expressed concern about the independence of the judiciary. 76. The Central African Republic welcomed efforts to promote human rights, notably free primary school education, legislation addressing domestic violence and sexual offences and the National Plan of Action to Accelerate the Abandonment of FGM. It urged the international community to provide the Gambian Government with financial and technical assistance. 77. Chad noted the need for support mentioned in the national report, and asked whether the financial and technical assistance required had been assessed and whether steps had been taken to obtain such assistance from development partners. It requested the international community to provide the necessary assistance. 78. Chile noted the Education for All initiative, the Domestic Violence Act and the National Health Policy , and hoped that the Gambia would continue to advance in that manner. It encouraged the Gambia to accelerate the ratification of international instruments, including the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment of Punishment (CAT), the Optional Protocol to CAT and the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (ICCPR-OP 2). 79. China highlighted universal education and increased school enrolment rates, particularly for girls. Legislative and other measures had strengthened the protection of vulnerable groups, including women, children and persons with disabilities. However, as a developing country, many challenges remained. The international community should provide technical and financial assistance. 80. The Congo welcomed free primary education, improved school enrolment rates, particularly for girls, and gender parity in education. It noted the action to address maternal and infant health, the rights of children, vulnerable persons and persons with a disability, the criminal justice system and trafficking in persons. 81. Costa Rica encouraged effective implementation of the strengthened institutional framework and sufficient resources for the National Agency against Trafficking in Persons. It was concerned about the Information and Communication Act and called for international cooperation and technical assistance to ensure that norms complied with international obligations. 82. Cuba noted the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals on education. It highlighted efforts to tackle the rights of persons with disabilities, prison conditions and trafficking in persons. It urged developed countries, in particular, to boost cooperation and financial assistance with regard to the areas mentioned in the national report. 83. The Democratic Republic of the Congo welcomed the policies on women and children, notably on children s education and citizenship and social status of women through work on social protection. It noted that the justice policy had led to improvements to the geographic spread of tribunals and action on access to justice. 11

12 84. Denmark noted that, despite acceding to CAT in 1985, the Gambia had not taken steps towards ratifying that Convention. It highlighted the CAT Initiative, launched in 2014, which targeted the universal ratification and implementation of the Convention, which might be useful in taking the matter forward. 85. Djibouti welcomed the delegation of the Gambia and congratulated it on its national report. It noted with satisfaction the efforts made to strengthen human rights protection, particularly in the sphere of national education, and wished the Gambia success in its objective of the full realization of human rights. 86. Egypt appreciated the steps taken to empower women through the National Gender and Women Advancement Policy, and the legislation to protect the rights of children. It commended the measures taken to reduce poverty and noted action to combat trafficking in persons, ensure access to justice and protect persons in vulnerable situations. 87. Ethiopia commended the identification of priority areas, including access to justice, gender-based violence, maternal and infant mortality, the rights of children and FGM. It noted the programmes to reduce poverty and address the root causes of unemployment. It considered the efforts to protect children from sexual exploitation in tourism to be encouraging. 88. France asked how decisions by ECOWAS concerning torture, extrajudicial executions and disappearances, and human rights resolutions adopted by the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights were being heeded. It also asked what stage the bill to establish a national human rights institution had reached, and what were its planned arrangements? 89. Gabon welcomed cooperation with international human rights mechanisms and efforts to implement the recommendations from the first cycle of the UPR. It appreciated measures to build schools in order to promote and protect the right of all Gambians to education. It called on the international community to offer its assistance to the Gambia. 90. Germany urged improved cooperation with international and regional human rights systems and the implementation of recommendations outstanding from the first cycle of the UPR. It expressed concern at amendments to the Information and Communication Act restricting freedom of expression and access to information. It called on the Government to protect those rights. 91. Ghana acknowledged gains in access to education, notably the building of more schools and increased enrolment levels, particularly for girls. It noted the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act, which provide protection for victims of domestic violence and criminalized all forms of sexual assault, exploitation and harassment. 92. Referring to the ratification of conventions, the delegation of the Gambia stated that the National Assembly had accepted the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment and its Optional Protocol, and that they were in the process of ratification. 93. Responding to questions about the refugee issue, the delegation stated that a Refugee Commission had been established and was fully funded by the Government. Moreover, it stated that not only were refugee children in the Gambia given access to education, but also, through a memorandum of understanding signed between the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Ministry of Health, refugees, asylum seekers, persons of concern and their families were provided with medical care in all health facilities. 94. Turning to the detention issue, the delegation confirmed that diplomatic missions were both allowed and encouraged to access their citizens in detention. Moreover, the 12

13 delegation explained that, according to the Constitution, any person should not be detained beyond 72 hours without being brought before a court. 95. Regarding concern expressed about two American citizens who had allegedly disappeared in the Gambia, the delegation stressed that, essentially, they were also of Gambian nationality; it underlined the Government s full commitment to and serious consideration of the progress of the investigation, which is being carried out by a task force comprised of officers from different security forces, who have visited all the border points and also gone to Guinea-Bissau for further information. 96. Regarding conditions of detention, the delegation stated that the Mile Two Central Prison had been rehabilitated recently. Improvements include installation of a new female wing in the New Jeshwang prison; establishment of a visiting committee aimed at checking the rights of prisoners; 24-hour availability of a medical doctor; and introduction of a balanced diet. 97. On the investigation into the cases of Chief Ebrima Manneh and Deyda Hydara, the delegation noted that the ECOWAS Court had not made any pronouncement on extrajudicial killings, torture or forced disappearances. The delegation stated that there had been a decision in the Deyda Hydara case, in which the investigation by the Gambia was questioned. The delegation stated that the Gambia had invited the United Nations to open investigations into the alleged disappearances of Chief Ebrima Manneh and Deyda Hydara and that it would welcome a United Nations investigation team. 98. The delegation noted the calls for legislation to eliminate FGM. It highlighted that, given the strong cultural backgrounds and traditional practices, the authorities decided to carry out public awareness campaigns to educate people on the effects of FGM/C. 99. Regarding the national human rights institution, the delegation stated that the legislation had been drafted and was in the process of consultation with stakeholders. It added that the institution would be financially independent and that the Gambia was working with the OHCHR to ensure that it was in compliance with the Paris Principles On trafficking in persons, the delegation stated that the National Agency for Trafficking in Persons had been conducting several sensitization workshops throughout the country and several investigations had been carried out, but no actual prosecutions so far Regarding the death penalty, the delegation recalled that the moratorium had been lifted in 2012 due to a sharp rise in heinous crimes being committed. Since then, the moratorium has been reinstated. The delegation added that the Constitution provided for the death penalty in the most exceptional cases The delegation stated that legislation ensured the freedom of expression, but also safeguarded the country, by criminal punishment, from excessive publication of false information usually aimed at destabilizing the country or threatening national security With regard to child mortality, the delegation stated that the Gambia was advanced in terms of access to health facilities and sanitation to combat child mortality. It added that every district had a health centre, with referral hospitals Regarding education, the delegation emphasized the improvement in school infrastructure, which had resulted in increased enrolment, as well as the ongoing policy to provide free education to both boys and girls at the primary level, and which is being extended to the secondary level. The delegation noted that most students at university were sponsored by the Government The delegation welcomed the visit by the Special Rapporteurs of the Human Rights Council to the Gambia during the first week of November. On the ratification of conventions and the domestication of ratified conventions, the delegation stated that the 13

14 Government would consider all the recommendations formulated during the Working Group session and decide which ones to present to the National Assembly Concerning access to justice, the delegation stated that the Gambia recognized sharia law in marriage, divorce and inheritance, as well as customary laws, common law and the statute laws of the Gambia. Moreover, mechanisms such as children s courts, industrial tribunals, trafficking in persons agency, legal aid secretariat and alternative dispute resolution are in place. The delegation added that the authorities were in the process of establishing the anti-corruption commission and the national human rights commission On the rights of women and children, the delegation mentioned that a series of laws, such as the Women s Act, Children s Act, Domestic Violence Act and Sexual Offences Act, had been passed to empower women and protect children and other vulnerable groups In conclusion, the delegation noted with appreciation the positive contributions and constructive criticism of the delegations. It reiterated the Gambia s commitment to the UPR process and stated that the Gambia would take into consideration all the recommendations made and report back on its positions at the next session of the Human Rights Council. II. Conclusions and/or recommendations ** 109. The following recommendations will be examined by the Gambia, which will respond in due course, but no later than the twenty-eight session of the Human Rights Council in March 2015: Ratify the conventions to which it is not yet a party, in keeping with the recommendations accepted during the first cycle of the review (Niger); Ratify the conventions on human rights not yet ratified and proceed to the harmonization of those already ratified with domestic legislation (Chad); Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Montenegro); Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and abolish the death penalty (Portugal); Consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Rwanda); Accede to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty (Angola); Sign and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Germany); Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal); Consider the ratification of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Indonesia); ** Conclusions and recommendations have not been edited. 14

15 Consider the ratification of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (Gabon); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (Portugal); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (Tunisia); Consider the ratification of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Ghana); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Mali); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Sierra Leone); Ratify the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Denmark); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol (Togo); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and harmonize the convention with the national legislation (France); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, recalling the commitment undertaken by the Government of the Gambia during the first cycle of the UPR (Uruguay); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and ensure that allegations of illtreatment are investigated thoroughly and independently and that the individuals responsible are held to account (Australia); Ratify the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and ensure its full implementation in law and practice (Botswana); Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Mali); Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Thailand); Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Uruguay); Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Thailand); Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (Portugal); Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure (Thailand); Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure (Portugal); 15

16 Consider the ratification of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Indonesia); Consider the ratification of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Ghana); Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Uruguay); Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Portugal); Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Tunisia); Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and harmonize the convention with the national legislation (France); Sign and ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Argentina); Consider the ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Ghana); Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and ensure that persons with disabilities are free from all forms of discrimination and social exclusion (Maldives); Ratify the Rome Statute (Tunisia); Ratify or accede to the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the International Criminal Court and implement it fully at national level (Slovakia); Ratify the UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education (Portugal); Incorporate into its national legislation most of the international legal human rights instruments that the Gambia has acceded to (Mauritania); Comply with its existing international and regional human rights obligations (Germany); Enact legislation prohibiting female genital mutilation (Slovenia); Enact and enforce effective legislation prohibiting the practice of female genital mutilation (Germany); Take urgent steps to incorporate the prohibition of female genital mutilation in its law and enforce it (Ghana); Consider enacting a comprehensive law prohibiting the practice of female genital mutilation (India); Introduce legislation to criminalize the practice of female genital mutilation (Canada); Enact domestic violence legislation with the aim of eliminating domestic violence, and enact specific legislation criminalizing acts such as female genital mutilation (Maldives); 16

17 That the President of the Gambia will use his executive power by refraining from signing the Bill amending section 144a of the Criminal Code into law, and that the Government of the Gambia eliminates all existing legislation penalizing sexual orientation or gender identity (Netherlands); That the President of the Gambia reject provisions in the proposed Criminal Code on aggravated homosexuality and absconding State officials (Sweden); That the President of the Gambia repeal provisions in the Criminal Code which criminalize consensual same-sex sexual conduct (Sweden); Repeal all provisions in laws that criminalize same sex relations between consenting adults and ensure the rights of those persons are protected (Australia); Repeal laws that provide for the criminalization of LGBT persons, in accordance of the principle of non-discrimination (France); Ensure that the Criminal Code is applied in a non-discriminatory manner, in full compliance with articles 2, 17 and 26 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as interpreted by the Human Rights Committee (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland); Immediately decriminalize homosexuality and amend legislation to promote and protect human rights for all individuals, regardless of race, ethnic origin, religion, personal beliefs and opinions, disability, age, gender and sexual orientation, in accordance with the Gambia s obligations, including as a signatory to the African Charter on Human and Peoples rights (Canada); Refrain from introducing and/or repeal any legislation that criminalizes sexual activities between consenting adults and take all necessary measures to prevent discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and/or gender identity or expression (Germany); Review the amendments to the Criminal Code in the area of false information, in order to guarantee respect for freedom of the media and freedom of expression (Portugal); Repeal legislation that does not comply with international human rights law, in particular the amendment to the Information and Communication Act, enacted in 2013 and the amendment to the Criminal Code, enacted in 2013 (Slovakia); Amend legislation to remove restrictions on freedom of expression, which has a major impact on human rights defenders, journalists and members of the political opposition (Spain); Amend legislation that infringes on freedom of expression and decriminalize press-related offences such as defamation (Australia); Amend the Criminal Code to ensure respect of the right to freedom of expression and establish guidelines for criminal defamation prosecution to ensure the exercise of the right to freedom of expression without fear of intimidation or harassment (Canada); Abolish all legal provisions limiting the freedom of expression and freedom of the press, and take all necessary measures to facilitate the work of human rights defenders, journalists and civil society (Germany); 17